Bridging the Gap (BTG) Program SCHOOL DISTRICT WELLNESS POLICY CODING TOOL, v. 2 (For Use with Coding SY policies)

(1)

UIC Revision Authors

Jamie F. Chriqui

Linda Schneider

Kristen Ide

Camille Gourdet

Amy Bruursema

UIC Notes:

An original version of this tool was developed by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Healthy

Eating Research Program, Working Group 1. The working group was chaired by Marlene Schwartz

(Yale Rudd Center) and included Anne Lund and Mollie Greves (Washington), Elaine McDonnell and

Claudia Probart (Pennsylvania), and Anne Samuelson and Leslie Lytle (Minnesota).

For a description of the development and reliability analyses of the original tool developed by the HER

working group, please see:

Schwartz M, Lund A, Grow H, et al. "A Comprehensive Coding System to Measure the Quality of

School Wellness Policies." Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 109(7): 1256-1262, July

2009.

This tool has been adapted to incorporate decision rules being employed by UIC under the BTG

program. New variables have been added, additional decision rules and a Coding Appendix are

incorporated, and, in some instances, alternative coding is identified. Note that all items labeled NG in

the UIC scheme corresponds to identically numbered items in the HER scheme that start with NS

[with the exception of items ending with a lower-case letter (e.g., US15a, NG23b) which are unique to

UIC].

For additional information on the UIC coding adaptations or for a copy of a grade-specific coding

sheet, please contact Jamie Chriqui at or 312-996-6410

Bridging the Gap (BTG) Program

SCHOOL DISTRICT WELLNESS POLICY CODING TOOL, v. 2

(For Use with Coding SY 08-09 policies)

In 2006, all school districts participating in the National School Lunch Program and other

Child Nutrition Programs, including the School Breakfast Program and the Milk Program,

were required to develop a written wellness policy. The original version of this coding

system was designed by a group of researchers funded by the Robert Wood Johnson

Foundation Healthy Eating Research Program to evaluate these policies. This instrument

was designed to be a common and reliable method for evaluating the comprehensiveness

and strength of wellness policies within and across states.

(2)

UIC v. 2: Updated 7-20-10 for use in Year 3

2

UIC Notes/Guidance

1. Also refer to specific coding examples/scenarios included in the Appendix in conjunction with

this coding tool.

2. BTG is conducting grade level-specific coding; as such, separate codes are created for each

variable for each grade level (ES, MS, HS).Use the UIC-created grade-level score sheet to

accompany this tool.

a. If the

grade-level distinctions are not clear in the policy

, check the district’s web

site to confirm the ES/MS/HS grades, as appropriate.

3. In cases where

similar policies are coded for districts within or across states

, review the

policies and final coding across districts to ensure coding consistency before completing the

consensus coding process and prior to submitting the coding for data entry.

4. If multiple districts within the same state all rely on the same

model policy

, code the model

first and then apply the coding as appropriate across districts.

a. For policies with

CSPI and NANA model

-like provisions, review the CSPI and NANA

master coding and code appropriately.

i.

Note on CSPI coding

: You will often find nuances and variations in the district

policy language so you will need to review the language in the policy and the

CSPI model to capture coding nuances accordingly.

ii. See also the CSPI and NANA model guidance in the attached Appendix.

5. If there are multiple policies from the same district with differing provisions, give credit for the

stronger weaker language.

Version Notes:

• v. 2 (5/5/09): Updated to allow for IOM standards and competitive food ban coding in NG

items. Added # minutes/credits for a number of other variables. Added trans-fat ban to NG

items.

• v.2 (6/25/09): Numbering was changed for all variables; numbers in parentheses reflect

original coding scheme v.1 (SY 06-07 & 07-08).

(3)

Coding

Scoring of wellness policies is based on the coding of seven sections, containing a total of 92

primary policy items and 16 sub-items. The sections include:

• Section 1: Nutrition Education (page 5)

• Section 2: Standards for USDA Child Nutrition Programs and School Meals (page 8)

• Section 3: Nutrition Standards for Competitive and Other Foods and Beverages (page 12)

• Section 4: Physical Education (page 31)

• Section 5: Physical Activity (page 38)

• Section 6: Staff PA/Wellness/Modeling (page 41)

• Section 7: Stakeholder involvement/feedback (page 42)

• Section 8: Messaging, Marketing, & Promotion (page 44)

• Section 9: Evaluation & Implementation (page 45)

Unless otherwise noted, each policy item is coded as “0,” “1,” or “2,” using the definitions below. This

coding manual lists each item followed by an explanation of the item and examples of "1" and "2"

statements.

Code

Explanation

0 = Not Mentioned

The item is not included in the text of the policy.

1 = Weak Statement

Code an item as a “1” when the item is mentioned,

but

• the policy will be hard to enforce because the statement is

vague

,

unclear

,

or

confusing

• statements are listed as

goals

,

aspirations

,

suggestions,

or

recommendations

• there are

loopholes

in the policy that weaken enforcement of the item

• the policy mentions a

future plan to act

without specifying when the plan

will be established.

Words often used include

:

may, can, could, should, might, encourage,

suggest, urge, some, partial, make an effort,

and

try

.

An exception to this would be if the district is unable to enforce action on the

item, such as teachers role modeling healthy behaviors (in this case the item

would be coded as a “2”).

2 = Meets / Exceeds

_Expectations

Code an item as a “2” when the item is mentioned, and it is clear that the

policy makers are committed to making the item happen because

• the item is described using specific language (e.g., a concept followed by

concrete plans or strategies for implementation) and

• strong language is used to indicate that action or regulation is required,

including:

shall, will, must, have to, insist, require, all, total, comply,

and

enforce.

Coding hint

One method for deciding between a “1” and a "2” is to consider the scenario of a parent

approaching a school district’s board of education to discuss something happening in a

school. If the policy is written such that it is not clear exactly how the school should behave

regarding the issue at hand, code the item as a "1." If the policy is written such that the

parent and board of education will have no trouble deciding if the school is or is not

compliant with the policy, code the item as a "2."

State law may regulate items in this coding tool. State law supersedes the authority of local wellness policies. Depending on how your study is structured, you may want to code according to the strength of state law when it exceeds standards in a policy or when it mentions items not included in a policy. For example, if state law prohibits soda in schools, but the policy does not, you might consider coding as if the policy explicitly prohibits soda.

The federal wellness policy requirements

are incorporated into the beginning of each section, as

appropriate, and are labeled “Federal Wellness.” The language for these items is taken from these federal

requirements (Public Law 108-265, The Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004).

(4)

UIC v. 2: Updated 7/20/10 for use in Year 3

4

Scoring

Policies are scored to determine Comprehensiveness and Strength. Comprehensiveness reflects the

proportion of item topics that are simply mentioned. Strength reflects the proportion of items that are

addressed with

specific

and

directive

language.

Score*

Explanation

Comprehensiveness

Score by section

Comprehensiveness is calculated by counting the number of primary items

in each section coded as “1,” “2,” “3,” or “4,” dividing this number by the

number of primary policy items in the section, and multiplying this number by

100. Strength Score by

section

Strength is calculated by counting the number of primary items in each

section coded as “2,” “3,” or “4,” dividing this number by the number of

primary policy items in the section, and multiplying this number by 100.

Total

Comprehensiveness

Total comprehensiveness is calculated by counting the number of primary

items coded as “1”,“2,” 3,” or “4,” dividing this number by the total number of

policy items (92) in all nine sections, and multiplying this number by 100.

Total Strength

Total strength is calculated by counting the number of primary items coded

as “2,” “3,” or “4,” dividing this number by the total number of policy items

(92) in all nine sections, and multiplying this number by 100.

*You may want to count NG5 and PE1 (PE52a) for both the strength and comprehensiveness scores (they are 0/1

variables).

The example below shows the calculation of sample scores for Section 1.

Section 1. Nutrition Education

Code

NE1

Includes goals for nutrition education that are designed to promote student wellness in a manner that the

_{local education agency determines is appropriate}

_{(Federal Requirement)}

2 NE2 Nutrition curriculum provided for each grade level

2 NE3 School has a garden (fruit and/or vegetable) that students participate in

0 NE4 District provides nutrition education training for teachers

1 NE5 Nutrition education is integrated into other subjects beyond health education

0 NE6 Nutrition education teaches skills that are behavior focused, interactive, and/or participatory

1 NE7 Specifies

number of nutrition education courses or contact hours

0 Subtotal for

Section 1 Nutrition Education

Comprehensiveness Score

Count the number of primary items coded as “1” or “2” and divide this number

by7. Multiply by 100. Do not count an item if the rating is “0.”

57 Strength Score

Count the number of primary items coded as “2” and divide this number by 7.

Multiply by 100.

29 Comprehensiveness Score

= There are two items coded as“1” and two items coded as “2,” for a total of 4 items.

Four divided by 7 equals 0.57, then multiplied by 100 for a score of 57.

Strength Score

= There are two items coded as “2.” Two divided by 7 equals 0.29, then multiplied by 100 for a

score of 29.

(5)

Section 1. Nutrition Education

(Note: See Appendix for additional NE-related guidance)

# Item Coding Guidance

NE1

Federal Wellness: Includes goals for nutrition education that are designed to promote student wellness in a manner that the local education agency determines is appropriate

0

Either of the following:

• No goals for nutrition education are mentioned

• Policy clearly detracts from requirement

1

Any of the following:

• Nutrition education goal is implied

• Policy only repeats the language of the federal wellness requirement regarding nutrition education

• Policy only mentions “total learning environment” language and no other NE-related language included

Examples:

• “The district is committed to nutrition education.”

• “Includes goals for nutrition education…designed to promote student wellness in a manner that the local educational agency determines is appropriate.” (and no other NE goals are stated)

• “Nutrition policies and guidelines for reimbursable meals will not be more restrictive than federal and state regulations.”

2

Any nutrition education goal statement is mentioned

Example: • “Schools should provide nutrition education and engage in nutrition _{promotion.”}

NE2 Nutrition curriculum provided for each _{grade level}

UIC NOTE: Health education curriculum should only be coded for this item if there is some reference to nutrition or healthy eating being a component of the curriculum/lessons/topics, etc. A wellness curriculum that does not mention nutrition/healthy eating does not count.

0

• Not mentioned

• Integrating nutrition education into other subjects beyond health education does not qualify for a “1” or “2” for NE2

• Solely incorporating NE consistent with the state Dept of Ed. standards

• Mentions “standards-based NE” without mentioning curriculum/program

• Addresses a “wellness curriculum” or health education curriculum without including nutrition/healthy eating as part of the curriculum components

1

• Describes general health curriculum for “K-12” or “all levels,” and/or it is unclear if each grade will receive nutrition education

• Addresses NE quality or number of courses/hours but not clear that each grade will receive NE

• Standards-based NE curriculum

• Addresses “sequential NE” without mentioning curriculum or grade levels

• Addresses “sequential-based NE curriculum” without mentioning grade levels

Examples:

• “Enable students, through a comprehensive curriculum, to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to make healthy food choices for a lifetime.” (Not clear that NE is actually taught at each grade level.)

• “Nutrition and physical activities lessons will be designed for integration into the curriculum and the health education program.”

2

Clear that district has a nutrition education curriculum in each grade Example: • “Nutrition topics shall be integrated within the comprehensive health _{education curriculum taught at every grade level (K-12).”}

NE3

School has a garden (fruit and/or vegetable) that students participate in (includes garden club, kitchen classroom, integration into the curriculum)

0 Not mentioned

1

Vague, suggested

Example: • “The NE program shall include enjoyable interactive activities such as _{contests, taste testing, field trips, and school gardens.”}

2

School garden required/definitively in place

Example: • “Each school will establish a school garden to give students the opportunity to plant, harvest, prepare, cook, and eat food they have grown.”

(6)

6

Section 1. Nutrition Education

(continued)

NE4 (NE5)

District provides nutrition education training for teachers

0 Not mentioned; training on school wellness policy does not qualify for a “1” or “2”

1

• Type of training is vague (even if required)

• Provision of training is suggested

• Specifies only health/nutrition education teachers will receive training

Examples:

• “In-service training for health education teachers is encouraged.”

• “Training opportunities for staff in the area of food nutrition is encouraged.” (Count this as long as not in the food service section of the policy. This variable is for teachers/NE teachers; not food service staff.)

2

All of the following:

• Provision of training is specific to nutrition education and required

• Policy implies that a broad set of teachers will receive training (not only health education teachers)

Examples:

• “Professional development training will be offered in the area of nutrition education for all interested MPS faculty and staff.” (NOTE: This is different than the coding for US15=1 (US20) because the goal in US15 (US20) is that all food service staff will have professional development whereas NE4 (NE5) seeks to ensure that all staff will be provided the opportunity for professional development.)

NE5* (NE6*)

Nutrition education is integrated into other subjects beyond health education

*See Coding Appendix for additional clarification

0 Not mentioned

1

Vague and/or suggested

Examples:

• “…will encourage teachers to integrate nutrition education into the broader curriculum.”

• “Staff shall teach, encourage, and support healthy eating by students by providing NE and engaging in nutrition promotion for all grade levels throughout the school day in a number of different instructional settings. Instruction shall be integrated and include information about nutrition, exercise, and/or healthy choices that...”

• “Instructional staff are encouraged to integrate nutritional themes into daily lessons when appropriate.”

2

Requires that nutrition education be integrated into other subjects

Examples:

• “Nutrition education will be integrated into mathematics classes.”

• “Nutrition education will be integrated into the broader curriculum, where appropriate.”

• “The wellness committee is responsible for overseeing policy implementation in the following areas…integration of nutrition into overall curriculum.”

NE6 (NE7)

Nutrition education teaches skills that are behavior-focused, interactive, and/or participatory

0 Not mentioned

1

• Skill-based nutrition education is suggested

• Specific skills are mentioned, but none are required

• Skill-based nutrition education is suggested outside of the NE section of the policy

Examples:

• “All students shall possess the knowledge and skills necessary to make nutritious and enjoyable food choices.” (This language was included in a policy with a weak NE section; this language fell under “other school based activities.”)

• "Schools will provide NE to foster lifelong habits of healthy eating." (Key here is “habits”—we equated lifelong habits similar to skills)

• “Students will receive NE that fosters the adoption and maintenance of healthy eating behaviors.”

2

• Skill-based nutrition education is required

• Specific skills or activities are identified and required (e.g., media awareness or understanding calorie balance, energy expenditure, and nutrition facts labels) Example: • “Nutrition education will provide the knowledge and skills necessary to promote student health.”

(7)

Section 1. Nutrition Education

(continued)

NE7 (NE8)

Specifies number of nutrition education courses or contact hours

0 Not mentioned

1

•

Amount of nutrition education is vague and/or suggested

•

NE is included in HE, but it is unclear how many credits/hours are for NE

Example: • “An appropriate number of class hours should be designated for nutrition _{education.”}

2

Number of hours or courses are specified and required

Example: • “…will ensure that four hours of class time will be designated for nutrition _{education every month.”}

NE7a

Amount of nutrition education courses, contact hours, or credits required (Specify)

Note: must be specific to NE (not HE)

Specify the amount of nutrition education courses, contact hours, or credits required for graduation. Be sure to include the quantity and the unit (e.g., 2 courses, 1 credit, 40 hours, 2 Carnegie units)

_____# hours/credits or _____units (Fill in # or units) Note: ONLY COMPLETE If NE7=2 (NE8); otherwise leave it blank.

(8)

8

Section 2. Standards for USDA Child Nutrition Programs and School Meals

Note: This section relates to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) school meals and NOT regulations for competitive foods. If the policy specifies regulations for “all foods” at school, and it is not clear whether the statement applies to either meals or competitive foods, apply those regulations to both this section (Standards for USDA Child Nutrition Programs and School Meals) and section 3 (Nutrition Standards for Competitive and Other Foods and Beverages).

US1 (US10)

Federal Wellness: Assures that guidelines for reimbursable school meals shall not be less restrictive than USDA school meal regulations

0

• No mention of district meeting federal/USDA school meal regulations/standards

• Guidelines clearly detract from federal/USDA school meal regulations/standards

• Just requires meal programs to meet the 2005 Dietary Guidelines

1

Policy states that district “should” or “strives” to meet federal/USDA school meal regulations/standards

Examples:

• “Nutritional standards for the school breakfast and lunch program are established that typically exceed state and federal standards.”

• “Nutritional standards for reimbursable school meals will not be more restrictive than federal and state requirements.”

2

Policy requires or assures that the district meet federal/USDA school meal regulations/standards

Examples:

• “The district shall provide school breakfasts and lunches that meet the nutritional standards required by the USDA School Breakfast and National School Lunch Programs.”

• “The district provides an assurance that guidelines for reimbursable school meals shall not be less restrictive than USDA meal regulations and guidance.”

• “The Food Service Program shall provide healthy food choices for students…Meals shall meet or exceed federal nutrition standards.”

• “..the district will ensure that reimbursable school meals meet the federal program requirements.”

• “All food sold or served will comply with USDA guidelines.”

• Policy states that the district regulation/procedure “SHOULD” provide an assurance that guidelines for reimbursable meals shall not be less restrictive than the USDA regulations and guidance; however, the regulation goes on to state that “All food made available in the federal program to students during the school day by the Office of Food Services will comply with or exceed the current federal and state requirements.” [The combination of the two statements—policy and then regulation—should be treated as a requirement]

US2 (US11)

Addresses access to and/or promotion of the School Breakfast Program (USDA)

0 Not mentioned.

1

• Promotes a breakfast program without specifying the “School Breakfast Program” (USDA) or CFR Part 220

• Encourages or suggests participation in the School Breakfast Program

• Notifies parents of the availability of the School Breakfast Program

• Encourages students to start each day with a healthy breakfast

Examples:

• “The district shall make every effort to offer school breakfast.”

• “The Food Service Program shall provide healthy food choices for students. Breakfast and lunch meals shall meet or exceed federal nutrition standards.”

2

Includes language to institutionalize the School Breakfast Program (i.e., specific reference to School Breakfast Program or CFR Part 220)

Examples:

• “All schools will provide breakfast through the USDA School Breakfast Program.”

• “Food services include breakfast and lunches in all schools through participation in the National Child Nutrition Programs.”

• “All school breakfasts comply with USDA regulations.”

• “To the maximum extent possible, all schools in the district will participate in available federal school meal programs (including NSLP, SBP).”

(9)

Section 2. Standards for USDA Child Nutrition Programs and School Meals

US3 (US13)

Addresses nutrition standards for school meals beyond USDA (National School Lunch Program / School Breakfast Program) minimum standards

Note: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans exceed the minimum standards for the USDA school meals programs.

0

• Not mentioned

• Unless defined, ambiguous references to federal or USDA standards/guidelines/ requirements (e.g., “federal nutrition standards,” “USDA standards,” or “USDA guidelines”) do not qualify for “1” or “2” because it is not clear that these standards refer to anything other than the minimum legal requirements for USDA school meals programs

• “Striving to meet” or “should meet” the 2005 Dietary Guidelines does not qualify for a 1 or 2

• Exploring increased use of whole grains or exploring including salads, yogurts and other healthy foods to the meal menu

1

• Vague and/or suggested

• Specifies the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and no other standards. To receive a “1” for specifying the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, a policy must at least state that it will meet the “Dietary Guidelines”

Examples:

• “…encourage the consumption and choice of nutrient dense food, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.”

• “…all meals will follow the food guide system developed by USDA.”

• “…all foods sold/served on campus will meet USDA Dietary Guidelines.” (and no other mention about school meal programs in the policy that would alter the coding for this item)

• “School meals promote fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat items.”

2

School meals are required to meet specific standards (e.g., 4 fruits and/or non-fried vegetables per day; only 1% and fat-free milk served; at least half of grains are whole grain; eliminates trans fats)

US4 (US14)

Specifies use of low-fat versions of foods and/or low-fat methods for preparing foods

0 Not mentioned. Low-fat food mandated by law does not qualify for “1” or “2”

1

Examples:

• “Cooking methods to reduce fat in school meals shall be used whenever possible.”

• “Healthy food preparation for meals…”

• “School meals promote fresh fruits, vegetables, and low fat items.”

• “Final preparation method cannot be deep-fat fried.”

2

Specific and required

Examples:

• “All cooked foods offered as part of a meal will be baked or steamed.”

• “Purchasing programs and preparation methods will be used to decrease fat, calorie and sodium levels in food.”

(10)

10

Section 2. Standards for USDA Child Nutrition Programs and School Meals

US5 (US15)

Specifies strategies to increase participation in school meal programs “School meal programs” can be assumed to refer to breakfast and/or lunch

UIC Note: For now, continue coding closed campus here and in US12a (US15a).

0

Not mentioned or weak statement. Notifying parents of eligibility requirements for free/reduced price meals is a federal requirement and does not qualify for “1” or “2” Examples: • “Schools will provide meals that are culturally/ethnically diverse.”

• “Child Nutrition Services will collaborate with ES buildings to encourage the consumption of F&B including opportunities for taste-testing among students.” (under NE in policy, taste testing is used as a teaching tool and not for menu development)

1

Mentions vague and/or suggested strategies

Examples:

• “School meals shall be made attractive to students by appealing to their taste preferences.”

• “Meals shall be appealing…”

• “…bus schedules should be arranged to facilitate participation in the school breakfast program.”

• “The district has a closed campus policy unless the Principal provides permission for students to leave during the lunch period.”

• “To the extent possible, school and transportation schedules shall be designed to encourage participation in school meal programs.”

2

Requires specific strategies such as promotional mailings or events, alternative breakfast systems, altered bus schedules, closed campus, student input on the menu, or “Grab and Go” or “Fun on the Run” promotions

Examples:

• “Students will have the opportunity to provide input on local, cultural and ethnic favorites.”

• “…shall provide periodic food promotions to encourage taste testing of healthy new foods being introduced on the menu.”

• “Morning bus routes will be scheduled to allow students to arrive at school in time to eat breakfast.”

US5a

(US15a) Closed campus

0 Not mentioned

1

• Mentions vague and/or suggested strategies

• Suggests that students are not allowed to leave campus for lunch/encourages schools to have a closed campus OR closed campus is a goal

Example: • “The district has a closed campus policy, unless the Principal provides

permission for students to leave during the lunch period.” 2 Required

Example: • “Students are prohibited from leaving campus for lunch.”

US6 Timing of recess in relation to lunch Note: code for elementary school only

0

•

Recess is scheduled after lunch

•

PA is scheduled before lunch (PA is not defined and/or definition of PA does not include recess)

1 Suggests recess is scheduled before lunch

2 Definitively requires recess to be scheduled before lunch

US7

(US17) Ensures adequate time to eat

If no standards are mentioned, code according to state law 0 Not mentioned

1

Examples: • “Schools are encouraged to permit all full-day students a daily lunch period of not less than 20 minutes.”

• “Personnel will schedule enough time so students do not have to spend too much time waiting in line.”

• “The school district will provide students with a minimum of 20 minutes to eat their meals.” (this gets a coding of “1”, because it is not clear whether “meals” includes lunch only or breakfast and lunch)

2

Requires meal periods to include ≥20 minutes for lunch and, if time for breakfast is mentioned, ≥10 minutes for breakfast

Examples: • “After obtaining food, students will have at least 20 minutes to eat lunch.”

(11)

Section 2. Standards for USDA Child Nutrition Programs and School Meals

US7a Specifies minimum minutes for breakfast

______________ minutes for breakfast (circle day or week w/ red pencil) Note: ONLY COMPLETE If minutes for breakfast is specified in US7=1 or US7=2 (US17); otherwise leave it blank.

US7b _{Specifies minimum minutes for lunch} ______________ minutes for lunch (circle day or week w/ red pencil) _{Note: ONLY COMPLETE If minutes for lunch is specified in US7=1 or US7=2 (US17); otherwise} leave it blank.

US8 (US20)

Ensures training or professional development for food service staff

0 Not mentioned

1

• Only food safety training is addressed (food handling permit, HACCP, etc.)

• Only mentions pre-service training

Examples:

• “All food service personnel will have adequate training in food service operations.”

• “Professional development training will be offered in the area of nutrition education for all interested MPS faculty and staff.” (NOTE: This is different than the coding for NE4=2 (NE5) because the goal here is that all food service staff will have professional development whereas (NE4) NE5 seeks to ensure that all staff will be provided the opportunity for professional development in NE).

• “…we will provide continuing professional development for all nutrition professionals in schools. Staff development programs should include appropriate certification and/or training programs for child nutrition directors, school nutrition managers, and cafeteria workers according to their level of responsibility.”

2

Nutrition training is required for food service staff. Providing only food safety training does not qualify for a “2”

Example: • “…shall ensure that professional development in the area of food and nutrition _{is provided for food service staff.”}

US9 (US22)

Nutrition information for school meals (e.g., calories, saturated fat, sugar) is available

0 Not mentioned

1

• Only available upon request

Example: • “…will provide nutrition information to parents upon request.”

2

Specific and required

Example: • “…will share and publicize information about the nutritional content of meals _{with students and parents.”}

US10 (NG38a)

Farm-to-school or farm-to-cafeteria program

*State coding: establishing a FTSP gets a “1”

0 Not mentioned

1

Suggested, time- or location- specific, subject to principal’s discretion, or weakened by other exceptions

Examples:

• "Schools are encouraged to make available locally grown produce to students for all school meals and food items sold outside of the reimbursable school meal program.”

• “Schools are encouraged to source fresh fruits and vegetables from local famers where practicable.”

2

Required/definitively in place

(12)

12

Section 3. Nutrition Standards for Competitive and Other Foods and Beverages

Note: This section relates to sale or service of foods outside USDA school meals. Do not count provisions in the USDA school meals section of the policy for items in this section. If the policy specifies regulations for “all foods” at school, and it is not clear whether the statement applies to either competitive foods or USDA school meals, apply those regulations to this section (Nutrition Standards for Competitive and Other Foods and Beverages) and to section 2 (Standards for USDA Child Nutrition Programs and School Meals).

• Some policies regulate foods “served” at school, while others only regulate foods “sold” at school. The distinction between “served” and “sold” is that “served” includes both foods that are “sold” and foods that are distributed without cost, such as foods served at birthday parties. Most items in this section refer to foods sold, but some refer to the broader category of foods served.

• For a policy to receive a minimum default code for mentioning U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the policy must state “Dietary Guidelines.”

• A “time-specific” regulation is one that only applies during certain hours (e.g., when class is in session or during lunch).

• A “location-specific” regulation is one that only applies to certain places or grade levels (e.g., in cafeteria or certain grades within MS).

UIC Note: “NG” items correspond with the “NS” items in the HER-version of the coding scheme. *See Coding Appendix for several NG-related items

NG1* (NG23*)

Federal Wellness: Includes nutrition guidelines selected by the local education agency for ALL foods available on each school campus during the school day with the objective of promoting student health and reducing childhood obesity *See Coding Appendix for additional clarification

0

• No guidelines for competitive foods mentioned or language weaker than 1 code

• Strives to/should meet the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for America

1

• Mentions districts guidelines but does not define them

• Mentions plans to create guidelines

• Only mentions federal law regarding the National School Lunch Program or Foods of Minimal Nutritional Value

• Only repeats the language of the federal wellness requirement regarding nutrition guidelines for all foods during the school day

• Indicates guidelines are limited only to particular places (e.g., cafeteria), times during the school day (e.g., 30 minutes before to 30 minutes after the school lunch is served), or categories of items (i.e., food but not beverage; beverage not food)

• Guidelines are subject to principal’s discretion, or weakened by other exceptions

• Guidelines that require provision of healthy food choices to students outside of the school meal program and no other NG language included

Examples:

• “Nutritious meals served by the food services operation and other nutritious food choices served in district schools and district-sponsored events will comply with district guidelines and state and federal law.” (and “district guidelines” are not defined in the policy)

• “NGs that require the use of products that are high in fiber, low in added fats, sugar, sodium, and served in appropriate portion sizes consistent with USDA standards shall be established for all foods offered by the district’s nutrition services department or contracted vendors.”

2

Requires specific district guidelines (that are not time- or location- specific), even if only in reference to the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and even if you feel the guidelines are weak (including guidelines that only apply to a %age of items) Example: • “All foods served during the school day shall meet district guidelines, which _{include…ensuring the provision of whole grains and fruits and vegetables.”}

SD Nutrition standards apply during the _{school day (SD)}

Note: The SD coding should be applied for each NG item, as appropriate, for each relevant grade level.

Note 2: Code SD based on however the district defines SD. If SD is defined as only applying through the lunch period, that would count for SD coding. If SD is defined as also including before school, that would include SD.

0 No mention of school day or NG apply at all times 1

NG item(s) limited to/applies only during the school day (SD)

(13)

Section 3.

Nutrition Standards for Competitive and Other Foods and Beverages

(continued)

0

• No suggestion of competitive food ban/not mentioned

• Only prohibits sale of FMNVs in places where meals are served during mealtimes

NG2* (NG23b*)

Competitive food ban/cannot be sold *See Coding Appendix for additional clarification

Example: • “Competitive foods and beverages are prohibited from the start of breakfast until the end of the last lunch period in places where school meals are served.”

1

• Competitive food ban suggested/encouraged (CSPI/NANA ES model language/; see Appendix for coding examples)

• Competitive food ban is limited to certain hours

Example: • “Competitive foods and beverages may not be sold from the time of arrival of the first student at school until thirty minutes after the lunch period.”

2

Bans the sale of competitive foods

Example: • “Competitive foods and beverages may not be sold on school campuses _{during the school day.”}

(

NG3 (NG23c)

Vending/competitive food contract compliance with NG

0

• No mention of vending/competitive food contracts

• Vending/competitive food contracts do not have to follow NG

1

Vague, suggested, location-specific, time-specific

Examples:

• “Upon expiration of the existing competitive food/vending contracts, all such contracts are encouraged to follow the district’s nutrition guidelines/standards.”

• “Schools should pursue contracts that both encourage healthy eating by students and reduce school dependence on profits on sale of FMNVs.”

• “Beverage contracts comply with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.”

2

Vending/competitive food contracts required to follow NG

Examples:

• “The superintendent shall continually evaluate vending contracts. Vending contracts that do not meet the intent of this policy shall be modified accordingly or not renewed.”

• “Upon expiration of the existing vending/competitive food contracts, such contracts must be in accordance with the district’s nutrition standards or not be renewed.”

NG4

Restricts fast food sales at school (includes cafeteria, school stores, and other venues)

Note: this is not prohibiting students from bringing fast food from outside

0

• Not mentioned

• Allows fast food > 2 days per week

1

• Restricts access to fast food sold in the cafeteria/on school grounds to 1-2 days per week

• Vague, suggested, location-specific, time-specific

Example: •“…each school shall limit access to no more than one day each week to retail fast food in the cafeteria, whether sold by contract, commercial vendor, or otherwise.”

2 Prohibits fast food sales on school grounds at all times

NG5

IOM Variable: Allows only fruit and/or vegetables and/or whole grains and/or related combination* products *Combination products defined from IOM: must contain a total of one or more servings as packaged of fruit, vegetables or whole grain products per portion

Note: In order to truly meet the IOM standards, the policy must get a 2 here AND must get a 3 or 4 on all items numbered NG18-22, 24-29

0 Not mentioned OR allows items other than F&V, whole grains, and/or related _{combination products}

1

Suggestive of meeting IOM Standard: Should allow ONLY F&V, whole grains, and/or related combination products

Example: • “If available, food and beverages sold should be limited to low-fat and non-fat _{milk, fruits, and non-fried vegetables.”}

2

Meets IOM Standard: Allows ONLY F&V, whole grains, and/or related combination products

• The only F&B that may be sold or served on campus during the school day are fruits and vegetables whole grains, and/or related combination products Example: _• “If available, food and beverages sold will be limited to low-fat and non-fat

(14)

14

Section 3.

Nutrition Standards for Competitive and Other Foods and Beverages

(continued)

NG6* (NG38*)

Addresses increasing “whole foods:” whole grains, unprocessed foods, or fresh produce

*See Coding Appendix for additional guidance

0

• Not mentioned

• Mentions only dried fruit, fruit juice, fruit roll-ups, etc.

• Indicates that schools shall “strive” to meet or “should” meet the 2005 USDA Dietary Guidelines

• Reference to whole grains, fresh fruits, etc., only relative to school meals

• Mentions only high-fiber items or items high in fiber.

Example: • “…must include items that meet the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.”

1

• Encourages offering/consumption of whole grains, unprocessed foods, or fresh produce

• Farm-to-school program is suggested

• Specifies the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and no other standards

• List of food items includes fruits/vegetables that may include, but are not limited to, a list of items including non-fresh fruits/vegetables (e.g., dried/canned fruits/veg)

Examples:

• "Schools are encouraged to make available locally grown produce to students for all school meals and food items sold outside of the reimbursable school meal program.”

• “Schools are encouraged to source fresh fruits and vegetables from local famers where practicable.”

2

• Definitively offering whole grains, unprocessed foods, or fresh produce

• Farm to School program is required or definitively in place

Examples:

• “At least half of the grains served will be whole grains.”

• “Only brown rice shall be served.”

• “Produce from area farms shall be sold/served at all locations where F&B are sold/served.”

(15)

Section 3.

Nutrition Standards for Competitive and Other Foods and Beverages

(continued)

NG7

(NG40) Addresses food not being used as a reward and/or withheld as a punishment

0

• Not mentioned

• Encourages the use of healthy food as a reward (not “ONLY” allowing)

• Discourages using unhealthy food as a reward (e.g., donuts, FMNVs, etc.)

• Only addresses withholding meals as punishment

• Use of food as a reward in instructional programs shall require superintendent approval

Examples:

• “The district will provide teachers with guidelines on the use of food as a reward without specifying guidelines.”

• “Staff are encouraged to limit the use of non-nutritious food as a reward/incentive and to promote nutritious options.”

1

• Discourages food as a reward or punishment

• Only allows healthy food as a reward

• Prohibits or discourages food as a punishment but does not prohibit food as a reward

• Strong language for food as a punishment but weaker language for food as a reward

Examples:

• “No punitive or disciplinary action shall be taken that would deny a student lunch or snack time.” (and policy does not address food as a reward)

• “…strongly discourage the use of food/beverages as a reward or punishment.”

• “…will encourage non-food alternatives as rewards.”

• “Only healthy foods will be used as a reward."

• “Food shall not be withheld as punishment and should not be used as a reward.”

• “Schools are encouraged to not use food or beverages that do not meet the nutrition standards for F&B sold individually as rewards, and will not withhold food or beverages as punishment.”

• “Teachers shall not use food as a reward, especially those that do not meet the nutrition standards.”

2

Prohibits food as a reward (even if using food as a punishment is not mentioned). Prohibition of food as a reward with the exception of Individual(ized) Academic Plans (IAP) or Individual(ized) Education Plans (IEP) still qualifies for a “2.”

Examples:

• “Food rewards or incentives shall not be used in classrooms to encourage student achievement or desirable behavior.”

• “The use of food or candy as a classroom reward for any school is prohibited.”

NG8 (NG41)

Nutrition information (e.g., calories, saturated fat, sugar) available for foods other than school meals

0

• Not mentioned

• “Nutrition information and education shall be offered throughout the school campus and based on the USDA Dietary Guidelines” (Not clear that this is specific to actual F&B items sold/served)

1

• Only available upon request

2

Required

(16)

16 NG9

(NG51)

Addresses access to (free) drinking water

0

• Not mentioned

• Policy only addresses the sale of bottled water

• Providing access to drinking water/fountains only during meal periods/in the cafeteria

• Allowing students to bring in bottled water from home

• Only addresses water available in the context of PE/PA

Example: • “Schools should ensure that students have access to appropriate

hydration and are encouraged to make use of it during PA.”

1

Availability of free drinking water is suggested or encouraged

Examples: • “Water shall be accessible during hours of school operation through choices such as drinking fountains or vending machines.”

• “Schools are encouraged to provide drinking fountains throughout the school campus…”

2

Free water is always available

Examples: • “Students and staff will have access to free, safe, and fresh drinking water throughout the school day.”

• “Drinking water fountains will be made available to students and staff throughout the school building.”

• “Students will be provided access to drinking water throughout the day.”

(17)

Section 3.

Nutrition Standards for Competitive and Other Foods and Beverages

(continued)

Notes for Year 3 Coding:

1. Use Nutrition Guideline Coding Supplement for detailed coding of NG10-NG15 (NG24-27, NG31-NG32) and NG16-NG29 (NG33-50)

2. Each of the food/beverage restrictions NG16-NG29 are coded separately for each location of sale/provision NG10-NG15; the coding instructions are identical for each

location and are not reported below

Places food is available NG10-NG15 (NG24-27, NG31-NG32)

NG10*

(NG24*) Regulates vending machines *See also Coding Appendix

Note: If policy regulates “all foods” or “competitive foods,” code according to the strength of that statement.

0

• No mention of vending machine regulations or umbrella statement regulating “all foods” or “competitive foods”

• Language such as: “The district shall monitor all food and beverages sold or served to students, including those available outside of the federally regulated child nutrition programs.” (i.e., a la carte, vending, student stores, rewards, fundraising, etc.)

• Language such as: “…should strive to sell only healthy foods in vending machines.”

• Efforts to minimize sale of FMNVs

• Strives to/should meet the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans

• Mentions regulating F&B in vending machines/all F&B without specifying guidelines or mentions plans to create guidelines

1

• Vending machine regulations or umbrella statement regulating “all (competitive) foods” is vague, suggested, time- or location- specific, subject to principal’s discretion, or weakened by other exceptions

• The 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and no other standards are mentioned to regulate vending machines or “all (competitive) foods”

• Regulations only apply to a very limited group of foods (e.g., prohibiting FMNVs in vending machines)

• Restrictions only apply to a %age of food and/or beverage items or a limited set of items (e.g., fat content and soda)

• (Note: if NG2=1 (NG23b) and there are no other nutrition guidelines, code NG10-12=1 (NG24-26))

Examples:

• “Vending machines shall include items which are healthful.”

• “Vending machines shall be unplugged during lunch hour.”

• “FMNVs shall not be sold on school grounds at any time.”

• “F&B sales in vending machines will support healthy eating”

• “…all food and beverages sold will strive to support the district’s healthy eating guidelines.”

• “The sale of food items during the school day shall be restricted to those items in categories of food that meet minimal nutritional value.”

• “The district shall consider sugar content, fat content, portion size, and lack of nutrients in all F&B sold or served to students.”

• “..75% of F&B sold in VM must meet district nutrition standards.”

• “A minimum of 20% of snacks in vending, stores, concession, and a la carte will be considered health snack offerings.”

• “NGs that require the use of products that are high in fiber, low in added fats, sugar, sodium, and served in appropriate portion sizes consistent with USDA standards shall be established for all foods offered by the district’s nutrition services department or contracted vendors.”

2

Requires regulation of ALL vending machine items or umbrella statement regulating “all (competitive) foods.” For a “2,” the regulation must meet one of the following:

• Regulate nutritional quality of each individual item sold (e.g., regulating maximum calorie, sugar, and saturated fat content of ALL items sold)

• Provide a specific and restricted list of food items allowed to be sold in vending machines or at all times (e.g., limiting vending to only water, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts) OR

• Prohibit a comprehensive list of unhealthy foods (e.g., baked goods, sweetened beverages, and candy) in vending machines or at all times

Examples:

• “Foods sold through vending machines shall be limited to water, 100% juice, fresh fruits and/or vegetables.”

• “All items sold through vending machines shall contain no more 35% of total calories from fat and sugars and no trans fats.”

4

Bans vending machines and/or bans all competitive food sales during the school day Examples:

• “The sale of F&B is limited to F&B sold through the school meal program.”

• “Vending machines are prohibited on school grounds.”

• “No competitive foods or beverages may be sold during the school day.”

(18)

18

Section 3.

Nutrition Standards for Competitive and Other Foods and Beverages

(continued)

NG11* (NG25*)

Regulates school stores *See also Coding Appendix

Note: If policy only mentions concessions or snack bars, do not code for school stores, unless policy defines concessions and/or snack bars as including school stores.

Note: If policy regulates “all foods” or “competitive foods,” code according to the strength of that statement.

0

• No mention of school store regulations or umbrella statement regulating “all (competitive) foods”

• Language such as: “The district shall monitor all food and beverages sold or served to students, including those available outside of the federally regulated child nutrition programs.” (i.e., a la carte, vending, student stores, rewards, fundraising, etc.)

• Any language such as: “…should strive to sell healthy F&B in school stores.”

• Mentions regulating F&B/all F&B in school stores without specifying guidelines or mentions plans to create guidelines

1

• School store regulations or umbrella statement regulating “all (competitive) foods” is vague, suggested, time- or location- specific, subject to principal’s discretion, or weakened by other exceptions

• The 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and no other standards are mentioned to regulate school stores or “all (competitive) foods”

• Regulations only apply to a very limited group of foods (e.g., prohibiting Foods of Minimal Nutritional Value [FMNV] in school stores)

Examples:

• “…ensure some healthy options are sold at school stores.”

• “Sales of F&B in school stores must comply with state Public School Nutrition Policy.”

• “…school stores shall strive to include healthy choices for sale…”

• “All food and beverages sold will strive to support the district’s healthy eating guidelines.”

• “The sale of food items during the school day shall be restricted to those items in categories of food that meet minimal nutritional value.”

• “…50% of F&B sold in stores must meet the district nutrition standards.”

2

Requires regulation of ALL school store items or umbrella statement regulating “all (competitive) foods.” For a “2,” the regulation must meet one of the following:

• Regulate nutritional quality of each individual item sold (e.g., regulating maximum calorie, sugar, and saturated fat content of ALL items sold)

• Provide a specific and restricted list of food items allowed to be sold school stores or at all times (e.g., limiting food sales to only water, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts)

• Prohibit a comprehensive list of unhealthy foods (e.g., baked goods, sweetened beverages, and candy) in school stores or at all times

Examples:

• “Foods sold through school stores shall be limited to water, 100% juice, and fresh fruits and/or vegetables.”

• “All items sold through school stores shall contain no more 35% of total calories from fat and sugars and no trans fats.”

4

Bans food/beverage sales in school stores and/or bans all competitive food sales during the school day

Examples •• “The sale of F&B is limited to F&B sold through the school meal program.”“District XYZ does not allow food/beverages to be sold at school stores.”

(19)

Section 3.

Nutrition Standards for Competitive and Other Foods and Beverages

(continued)

NG12* (NG26*)

Regulates food service a la carte OR food sold as an alternative to the reimbursable school meal program (if not defined as to what this means) *See also Coding Appendix

Note: If policy regulates “all foods” or “competitive foods,” code according to the strength of that statement; if policy addresses food and/or beverage sold by food service program /child nutrition programs etc. but the policy omits mentioning a la carte, give credit for a la carte.

0

• No mention of a la carte regulations or umbrella statement regulating “all (competitive) foods”

• Language such as: “The district shall monitor all food and beverages sold or served to students, including those available outside of the federally regulated child nutrition programs (i.e., a la carte, vending, student stores, etc.).”

• Language such as: “…should strive to sell healthy a la carte F&B.”

• Mentions regulating a la carte/all F&B without specifying guidelines or mentions plans to create guidelines

1

• A la carte regulations or umbrella statement regulating “all (competitive) foods” is vague, suggested, time- or location- specific, subject to principal’s discretion, or weakened by other exceptions

• The 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and no other standards are mentioned to regulate food service a la carte or “all (competitive) foods”

• Regulations only apply to a limited group of foods (e.g., prohibiting FMNVs)

• Prohibits FMNVs during meals (also code NG17al=1 and NG24al=2)

Examples:

• “…all food and beverages sold will strive to support the district’s healthy eating guidelines.”

• “food service shall strive to include some healthy choices (choices listed) for all a la carte food sales.”

• “The sale of food items during the school day shall be restricted to those items in categories of food that meet minimal nutritional value.”

• “…50% of a la carte F&B items must meet district nutrition standards.”

2

Requires regulation of ALL a la carte items or umbrella statement regulating “all (competitive) foods.” For a “2,” the regulation must meet one of the following:

• Regulate nutritional quality of each individual item sold (e.g., regulating maximum calorie, sugar, or saturated fat content of ALL items sold)

• Provide a specific and restricted list of food items allowed to be sold a la carte or at all times (e.g., limiting food sales to only fruits, vegetables, and whole grains)

• Prohibit a comprehensive list of unhealthy foods (e.g., baked goods, sweetened beverages, and candy) a la carte or at all times

Examples:

• “A la carte F&B sales shall be limited to water, 100% juice and fresh fruits and/or vegetables.”

• “All items sold through school stores shall contain no more 35% of total calories from fat and sugars and no trans fats.”

4

Bans a la carte food sales or bans all competitive food sales

Examples: •• “The sale of F&B is limited to F&B sold through the school meal program.”“District XYZ does not allow a la carte food/beverage sales.”

(20)

20

Section 3.

Nutrition Standards for Competitive and Other Foods and Beverages

(continued)

NG13* (NG27*)

Regulates food served at class parties and other school celebrations

0 Not mentioned

1

• Regulations for class parties or umbrella statement regulating “all (competitive) foods” served/distributed/available is vague, suggested, time- or location- specific, subject to principal’s discretion, or weakened by other exceptions

• The 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and no other standards are mentioned to regulate class parties or “all (competitive) foods

served/distributed/available”

• Regulations only apply to a very limited group of foods (e.g., prohibiting Foods of Minimal Nutritional Value [FMNV] at all times)

• Regulations for class parties are required but weakened (e.g., by allowing one traditional party food)

Examples:

• “District encourages healthy snacks at parties.”

• “Celebrations involving food during the school day shall be at the discretion of the school principal.”

• “The school food environment (including celebrations) on balance and over time should be consistent with healthy food guidelines.”

• “…permits only one birthday party per month.”

• “The district shall provide parents with a list of foods that meet the Board’s snack standards for healthy celebrations/ parties, rewards, and fundraising activities…” (and no other mention of celebrations/parties included in the policy)

• “The district should regulate all food and beverages sold/served as part of classroom activities.”

• “Classroom parties will offer minimal amounts of foods (maximum 2-3 items) that contain added sugar as the first ingredient and will provide the following: fresh fruits and vegetables, water, 100% fruit juice, or milk.”

• “…classroom parties, celebrations, etc. shall be limited to one snack and one beverage (100% juice, water or milk)”

• “The district shall consider sugar content, fat content, portion size, and lack of nutrients in all F&B sold or served to students.”

• “NGs that require the use of products that are high in fiber, low in added fats, sugar, sodium, and served in appropriate portion sizes consistent with USDA standards shall be established for all foods offered by the district’s nutrition services department or contracted vendors.”

• “All F&B available will meet the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.”

2

Requires regulation of ALL foods served/distributed/available at class parties or umbrella statement regulating “all foods served/distributed/available.” For a “2,” the regulation must apply to food served/distributed/available and meet one of the following criteria:

• Regulate nutritional quality of each individual item served/distributed/available (e.g., regulating maximum calorie, sugar, or saturated fat content of ALL items)

• Provide a specific and restricted list of food items allowed to be

served/distributed/available at class parties or at all times (e.g., limiting to fruits and whole grains)

• Prohibit a comprehensive list of unhealthy foods (e.g., baked goods, sweetened beverages, and candy) from being served/distributed/available at class parties/celebrations or at all times

Example: • “Foods and beverages served at school celebrations must meet the District’s _{Nutritional Standards.” (and standards are defined)}

4

Competitive food ban